IF YOU feel your business has weathered the recessionary storm with plenty of orders and a bank balance generously in the black, then perhaps you need a present to yourself. A present like the new BMW 6 Series Convertible.
With a roof that automatically opens in 19 seconds, and closes again in 24 seconds while on the move at up to 25mph there’s virtually immediate cover from inclement weather.
You needn’t be cut off from your business though. Among the technology on offer in the new BMW 6 Series Convertible is in-car email which can be displayed via Bluetooth through the BMW ConnectedDrive system.
Owners of a BlackBerry smartphone can access their mobile phone’s email folder using the BMW iDrive control system. The system allows emails to be received and either displayed on the Control Display unit or they can be read aloud using a text-to-speech function.
BMW says it is the first car maker to offer emails on the move.
The new BMW 6 Series, with its elegant body line offset by aggressive shark-nose styling at the front, goes on sale in March 2011, with orders being taken now.
There will be two models available: the 640i SE (£65,680) and the 650i SE (£73,430).
Business users will be most interested in the six-cylinder 640i. Powered by a 320hp turbocharged 3.0-litre unit the engine is quick (0 to 62mph in 5.7 seconds), but also remarkably fuel efficient: 35.8mpg on the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions are 185g/km.
Such impressive figures are assisted by the standard fitment of start-stop technology on an automatic transmission along with active aerodynamics fitted to the grille that control air intake.
For company car drivers, the benefit in kind company car tax banding is 26%.
Standard equipment includes 18-inch light alloy wheels (19inch on the 650i), Dakota leather upholstery, eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, electric seat adjustment, BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation system, Xenon headlights, LED front fog lights and front and rear Park Distance Control.
New 640i averages over 35mpg and features first in-car email system